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Government developing mobile app to widen access to Guyana Development Bank 03 PAGE
–– President Ali says, assures that ‘grassroots’ financial institution will serve ordinary people
Members of the 21st Chinese Medical Brigade, who are scheduled to depart Guyana after a one-year tour of duty, recently met with President Dr. Irfaan Ali. Over the past year, the 18-member team provided 11,500 outpatient consultations, treated 4,039 inpatients, and performed 2,500 surgical procedures. The medical partnership between Guyana and China dates back to the early 1990s, when the first Chinese Medical Brigade provided medical supplies, and conducted healthcare outreaches in communities across the country. Since then, successive brigades have supported clinical services at the GPHC, the Linden Public Hospital and other public healthcare facilities, while contributing to the transfer of specialist knowledge and skills to Guyanese healthcare professionals (Photo: President Dr. Irfaan Ali)
Hosororo Secondary poised to 04 redefine education in Region One PAGE
–– Minister Parag says right conditions being created for students, teachers to thrive
Government assessing foreign-exchange demand concerns 03 PAGE
—President Ali says
05 Guyana seeks China’s co-operation in 05 agriculture, urban, maritime development PAGE
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Air Navigation Services Area 08 Control Centre praised for swift response to in-flight emergency PAGE
GPL considers additional generation capacity as demand hits 255MW
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–CEO says
THE GUYANA Power and Light (GPL) is weighing additional generation options as peak electricity demand reaches approximately 255 megawatts (MWs), leaving the utility company with limited reserve capacity to respond to further increases or disruptions. GPL’s Chief Executive Officer Kesh Nandlall, during his appearance on the Starting Point podcast, said the utility currently has about 270 MW available through the Demerara-Berbice Interconnected System (DBIS), meaning the gap between available capacity and peak demand is relative-
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
ly narrow. “We have hit about 255 megawatts of peak demand, and we expect, and we have available to us about 270,” Nandlall said. He explained that while GPL still has some additional generation that can be brought into service, this would not create the reserve margin needed to adequately cushion the system in the short term, particularly as demand continues to rise. “We are currently looking at additional generation, immediate, immediate,” Nandlall said, while adding that a number of options are being considered. According to the CEO, GPL is examining smaller generation units that could be installed at strategic points
on the network, while also considering a larger generation solution. This move comes as electricity demand continues to climb sharply. Against this backdrop, Nandlall disclosed that peak demand stood at 125 MWsin 2020 before increasing to 221 MWs last year and approximately 255 MWs currently. The customer base has also expanded from about 201,000 in 2020 to approximately 250,000, while increased activity in housing, manufacturing, hotels and other business sectors has added further pressure to the system. Nandlall said that this rapid growth in demand has contributed to overloaded
GPL’s Chief Executive Officer Kesh Nandlal networks and transformers, system until larger projects with GPL crews working come on stream. around the clock to address Nandlall said GPL exthe resulting problems. pects gas to energy to sigThe company is also re- nificantly strengthen availlying on scheduled mainte- able generation, with the first nance and additional genera- phase expected to eventually tion measures to manage the provide 300 MW. Based on
the current plan, he said the 300 MW should be available by June next year. However, he stressed that the increased generation would not immediately eliminate all power interruptions, noting that the transmission and distribution network also requires significant investment and redundancy. Against this backdrop, he disclosed that GPL is currently implementing an infrastructural programme valued at approximately US$800 million, involving new substations, transmission lines and more than 200 kilometres of distribution feeders. Nandlall said the infrastructural upgrades are intended to allow additional power to be distributed more effectively and to reduce pressure on existing circuits.
Modernisation must go beyond technology –– Dr Singh emphasises, calls for NIS services to be adapted to meet population’s changing expectations
SENIOR Minister within the Office of the President with Responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh, has called on the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to adapt its services to the changing expectations of the population, stressing that modernisation must go beyond simply introducing new technology. Dr Singh made this call while delivering the feature address at the NIS’ recent anniversary general meeting, where he outlined the need for the scheme to improve how it interacts with contributors and pensioners. He said the ongoing drive to digitise the NIS should not be viewed solely as a technological exercise, but as part of a broader effort to ensure that the scheme continues to provide quality service to the people it serves. “This is not just about technology,” Dr Singh said. He went on to add that the NIS must also respond to changing expectations of what constitutes good-quality service. Under the digitisation drive, contributors are expected to have great-
Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh er access to NIS services without having to visit an office. Dr Singh said persons should be able to apply for registration digitally, while employers and self-employed persons should be able to submit their monthly returns electronically. It should also be possible for contributions to be paid digitally, while contributors should be able to access their contribution records online. Against this backdrop, he outlined plans for
claims to be submitted and tracked digitally, allowing contributors to follow the progress of their claims without having to make repeated visits to NIS offices. Dr Singh said such changes are important as the scheme seeks to respond to the needs of the people it serves, particularly elderly and vulnerable persons. The finance minister also pointed to the existing facility allowing pensioners to receive their payments directly into bank accounts, which he said removes the need for pensioners to line up at the NIS and subsequently visit a bank to access their monies. He used the occasion to highlight the facility for pensioners to submit their life certificates through WhatsApp, noting that such measures are a part of efforts to make NIS services more convenient. The wider push for modernisation, he said, should therefore focus not merely on introducing digital systems, but also on ensuring that those systems translate into better and more convenient services for contributors and pensioners.
Government developing mobile app to widen access to Guyana Development Bank 3
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
–– President Ali says, assures ‘grassroots’ financial institution will serve ordinary people
THE Government of Guy‑ ana is developing a mobile application to ensure that the soon‑to‑be‑launched Guyana Development Bank (GDB) is accessible to en‑ trepreneurs and small busi‑ nesses in every region of the country, President Dr. Irfaan Ali has announced. Speaking during a wide‑ranging discussion with private sector leaders and stakeholders on Sunday, the President said the bank, which comes into operation on October 5 with an initial capitalisation of US$100 million (approximately G$20 billion), is being deliberately designed as a “grassroots” institution to serve ordinary Guyanese, particularly young people, women, and vulnera‑ ble groups. Dr. Ali explained that the mobile application will
allow citizens to engage with the bank’s services without having to be physically close to traditional financial centres on the coast. “What we are doing also is creating an app, so the bank is accessible through technology. We are also de‑ veloping a system of facilita‑ tion,” he said, noting that the GDB will operate through a combination of branch desks in commercial banks, region‑ al officers, facilitators and mentors, as well as digital channels. This, he stressed, is intended to ensure that hinterland and riverine com‑ munities, and emerging enter‑ prises in tourism, agriculture and agro‑processing, are not left behind. The President under‑ scored that the GDB is “not a grant facility” but a develop‑ ment institution aimed at eco‑
nomic empowerment, cred‑ it building, and long‑term wealth creation at the house‑ hold and community levels. Under the model outlined, small entrepreneurs will be able to access up to G$3 mil‑
lion in collateral‑free, inter‑ est‑free financing in certain categories, backed by com‑ pulsory mentorship, technical support, and financial literacy training. The bank’s structure will
see sector specialists and government extension offi‑ cers working alongside bor‑ rowers to refine proposals, link them to existing State support programmes, and help them transition, over time, into the commercial banking system. Throughout the dis‑ cussion, Dr. Ali repeated‑ ly linked the bank and its supporting mobile app to a broader strategy of economic diversification beyond oil and gas, community develop‑ ment, and the strengthening of local value chains. He cited examples rang‑ ing from organised poul‑ try production, dragon fruit farms, and greenhouse clus‑ ters to value‑added food pro‑ cessing for local supermar‑ kets and regional exports. The President also high‑ lighted the transformative
impact he expects for women entrepreneurs, many of whom have historically lacked col‑ lateral despite contributing significantly to household assets. Dr. Ali said the bank will operate under clear eligibility criteria, compulsory coach‑ ing, and transparent report‑ ing, including the publication of lists of beneficiaries to al‑ low for community scrutiny. He emphasised that while the first issuance will focus on ideas, innovation, vulner‑ ability and the “small man”, young professionals with entrepreneurial plans, includ‑ ing those in the public sector, may also be able to benefit as the facility scales. Ultimately, the Presi‑ dent projected that within five years, the initial capital could generate a multiplier effect across the economy.
quests for foreign exchange will not be processed. Central Bank Clear‑ ing Window: Commercial banks will submit invoices and bills of lading to the Bank of Guyana for further verification through a newly established single-window system. Credit-Card Restric‑ tions: Personal credit cards must not be used to settle business obligations. “We don’t want somebody set‑ tling a US$600,000 vehicle purchase for their compa‑
ny with a credit card,” Ali stressed. Penalties for Inflated Invoicing and Capital Flight: Entities involved in over-invoicing, property transactions, or related-party transfers designed to move capital offshore will face penalties. Declaration of Cur‑ rency Sources: Persons leaving Guyana with for‑ eign currency must declare the source, whether from banks or cambios, to en‑ hance transparency. Local Bank Accounts for Oil & Gas Compa‑ nies: All entities registered under the Local Content Law must maintain a local bank account into which for‑ eign-currency earnings are remitted. “Local content leg‑ islation will be amended to reflect this,” Ali confirmed. Central Bank Clear‑ inghouse: A single-win‑ dow post-clearing system will reconcile transactions among the GRA, com‑ mercial banks, and the Bank of Guyana before new forex requests are facilitated.
Government assessing foreign-exchange demand concerns
—President Ali says PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has begun examining the structure of Guyana’s foreign exchange amid concerns of rising demand within the local economy. Dr Ali said during a re‑ cent press conference that he met with representatives of the country’s commercial banks and was informed that outstanding demand for for‑ eign currency has climbed to just over US$200 million. According to the pres‑ ident, the banks reported that some of the demand represents a carry-forward from earlier months, as they have been unable to satisfy monthly requests amid the rapid expansion in econom‑ ic activities. “They estimate now, for example, their outstanding demand to date, as we speak now, is in the vicinity just over US$200 million. That is what is in the system that is required now. So, they are looking at the structure of that demand,” the Head of State told reporters.
He said the analysis will also examine whether there are any “misdirection or fi‑ nancing of other operations” involving foreign currency in Guyana. The president said the government is also examin‑ ing the role of private-sec‑ tor expansion in driving demand for foreign curren‑ cy, including the extent to which increased demand is linked to legitimate business activity. He disclosed that Asgar Ally is helping his office to analyse the structure of the demand, drawing on his ex‑ perience and examining the increase in private-sector demand. The president said the government will meet with the commercial banks again after his return from the United Nations to further assess the situation. The development comes amid continued concerns over the availability of for‑ eign currency in the local banking system, as busi‑
nesses and other economic actors seek to meet growing demand. Last year, Dr Ali had announced a series of im‑ mediate policy measures to strengthen foreign-ex‑ change management and protect Guyana’s financial system, as the country faces unprecedented demand for U.S. dollars and a surge in credit-card transactions. Those nine measures included: Invoices Required for Forex Requests: Any re‑
quest for foreign exchange at commercial banks must be accompanied by a copy of the commercial invoice. Verification upon Ar‑ rival: Importers will be re‑ quired to submit the invoice and bill of lading to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and their banks, once goods arrive, to verify that items were indeed brought into Guyana. Conditional Access to Future Forex: If customers fail to submit verified docu‑ ments, their subsequent re‑
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Hosororo Secondary poised to redefine education in Region One
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
HOSORORO Secondary School is poised to become a transformative centre for education in Region One, combining modern academic facilities with specialised technical training to prepare students for opportunities within their communities and beyond. The Ministry of Education, in a Facebook post on Sunday, showcased the school’s development following a recent visit by Minister of Education Sonia Parag, Permanent Secretary Shannielle Hoosein Outar, Chief Education Officer Saddam Hussain and Assistant Chief Education Officer Secondary Sherwyn Blackman. Located in the Mabaru-
Minister of Education Sonia Parag ma Sub District, the institution has been developed
to expand access to quality secondary education while creating an environment where students can pursue academic studies alongside practical skills training. During the visit, Minister Parag said the development represents an important step in creating the conditions necessary for students and teachers to thrive. “We can have all of the students in, where we can have the teachers comfortably accommodated and provide that kind of access to education that we really wanted to,” the minister noted. Importantly, the investment extends beyond infrastructure, the school is being positioned around an
Assistant Chief Education Officer Secondary Sherwyn Blackman education model that connects classroom learning with the practical demands of the region. Assistant Chief Education Officer Secondary Sherwyn Blackman said students will be exposed to a range of technical disciplines, including furniture making, building technology, AutoCAD and small motor repairs. “The big push is also on TVET and ensuring that every child can leave a secondary school with a skill in TVET,” he said. The emphasis on technical education is intended to give students competencies that can translate into employment, entrepreneurship, and services relevant to the needs of communities across the Mabaruma Sub District. The school features smart classrooms and specialised laboratories for Information Technology, Biology, Chemistry and Home Economics, together with facilities dedicated to Technical and Vocational Education and Training. Modern dormitories and teachers’ living quarters further strengthen the school’s capacity to accommodate students and educators, particularly those from surrounding communities who require residential facilities to access secondary education. (DPI)
Guyana seeks China’s co-operation in agriculture, urban, maritime development 5
GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips has outlined opportunities for Guyana and China to deepen their partnership beyond the oil-and-gas sector, pointing to areas including sustainable urban development, agriculture, energy, infrastructure, and marine development. Prime Minister Phillips, during a recent reception hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to commemorate the country’s National Day and the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, said Guyana is at a pivotal point in its national development, with the growth of the oil and gas sector creating unprecedented opportunities for the country. However, he stressed that Guyana’s ambitions extend beyond hydrocarbons, with the government seeking to use the country’s current period of economic opportunity to diversify the economy, strengthen food and energy security, modernise infrastructure, and develop its human capital. “The development of our oil-and-gas resources has
created unprecedented opportunities for our country. But our ambition extends well beyond hydrocarbons,” he said, adding: “ We a r e d e t e r m i n e d to use this period of opportunity to diversify our economy, strengthen food and energy security, modernise our infrastructure, develop our human capital, and pursue a low-development pathway that is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient to climate change.” He said the focus should not only be on what the two countries have already achieved together, but also on what more could be accomplished through the partnership. According to Phillips, Guyana brings to the relationship abundant natural resources, significant biodiversity, agricultural and energy potential, a strategic geographic location, and, importantly, the talent and determination of its people. Meanwhile, China brings extensive experience and expertise in technology, infrastructure, manufacturing, science, innovation and global connectivity.
Prime Minister Mark Phillips during a recent reception hosted by the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China to commemorate the country’s National Day and the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China The Prime Minister said the combination of these strengths could create opportunities for a partnership that generates lasting value,
supports sustainable development, and delivers meaningful benefits to both countries. One area he identified as having significant potential
is sustainable urban development. He said China’s experience in renewable energy, smart infrastructure, modern transportation and urban planning could complement Guyana’s efforts to develop cleaner, more efficient, connected and climate-resilient communities. “As Guyana develops, we have an opportunity not simply to build bigger but to build better and to demonstrate that economic growth, environmental stewardship, and improved quality of life can advance together.” Agriculture, he added, represents another area where Guyana and China could expand co-operation. Phillips noted that Guyana has land, water and a longstanding agricultural tradition, while China has developed expertise in agricultural science, mechanisation, irrigation, food processing and agricultural technology. He said deeper cooperation in these areas could help Guyana improve agricultural productivity, strengthen food security, expand value-added production and develop solutions suited to the challenges
posed by a changing climate. The Prime Minister also pointed to Guyana’s maritime space as an area with potential for greater co-operation. He identified fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, environmental protection and sustainable ocean development as areas where Guyanese institutions could work alongside Chinese universities, research centres, enterprises and technical partners. Such cooperation, Phillips said, could help build local capacity, advance knowledge, foster innovation and create new opportunities for Guyanese. “Our maritime space, likewise, presents opportunities for deeper cooperation in fisheries, aquaculture, marine science, environmental protection, and sustainable ocean development. These are areas where Guyanese institutions, Chinese universities, research centres, enterprises, and technical partners can work together to build capacity, advance knowledge, foster innovation, and create new opportunities for our people.”
Minister Griffith deepens direct engagement with Congressional Black Caucus leadership
MINISTER of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith participated in the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation’s Annual Legislative Conference in Washington D.C., where he had the opportunity to engage with several prominent members of the United States Congress, and deepen ties built over successive visits from the Government to Washington. During the visit, Minister Griffith spoke with Congressman Jonathan Jackson, where the two discussed the importance of continued U.S. support for Guyana’s developmental agenda, a press release said. It noted that the minister also held conversations with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke, among other members of the Caucus, as part of a broader effort to strengthen Guyana’s relationships with lawmakers on both sides of the aisle. Guyana continues to enjoy strong, bipartisan support within the U.S. Congress, and Minister Griffith’s engagements this week reflect the Government’s ongoing commitment to deepening these ties, the press release said, adding that many of the conversations centred on providing Congressional leaders with updates on new developments taking place across Guyana, ensuring that U.S. partners remain informed of the country’s progress.
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith with House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries in Washington, D.C. recently
Minister of Labour and Manpower Planning Keoma Griffith and Congressional Black Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke in Washington, D.C.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
A Home of Her Own
OF the 3,245 house lots allocated in the first half of 2026, 1,547, or 47.7 per cent, went to women. Behind that figure are mothers, daughters and breadwinners now closer to owning the ground beneath their feet. We applaud it without reservation, because it shows what a fast-growing economy looks like when it is made to serve everyone. It is no fluke. By mid-2025, women had received 47 per cent of all the house lots the government had allocated. A result that holds across tens of thousands of allocations is not a photo opportunity; it is policy working as designed. Ownership matters because land is the first rung on the ladder of wealth, and women have too often been left at its foot. A title brings security of tenure and collateral to borrow against. In a woman’s hands it can become a
business, a child’s education, an independent future. It is encouraging that 1,930 women also received entrepreneurial training: a title and a business plan make a formidable pair. The programme reaches those who need it most. Sixty-five per cent of allocations went to low- and moderate-income households, 27 per cent to middle-income families and eight per cent to young professionals. And it is national: from Wismar in Region 10, where more than 1,600 plots have been allocated and some $5.5 billion is going into infrastructure, to new houses rising in Bartica. Delivery matches intent. The government spent $89.9 billion in six months, more than half of this year’s $159.1 billion housing budget, and distributed 4,883 titles and transports, nearly 70 per cent of the 7,000-plus promised for all of 2026, with over
2,000 more to come. The ministry is working to cut the wait for a title from as long as six months to three. Nine new housing areas were completed, and works continue in 13 more. Officials also grasp that a lot is not yet a home. Hence the steel-andcement subsidy, the Yarrowkabra homestead programme and construction-advancement subsidies, and hence foundation assistance, nearly $1 billion so far, giving families a prepared base for a prefabricated house. That targets the real obstacle: the cost of getting started. Already 483 houses have been completed, with more rising from Amelia’s Ward to Palmyra. Communities are being built, not just houses. Some 625 LED street lamps went up in six months, with 375 more due by year-end; $8 billion is earmarked this year for interlocking concrete drains; parks, playgrounds
and mini-industrial areas are taking shape; and the single-window system received 4,292 building-permit applications. A lot without a drain, a lamp or a permit is only half a house, and this programme is supplying the rest. The stated goal is home ownership for every Guyanese family, and the ambition, 40,000 houses over four years, is bold, as it should be. Rapid growth and a rising population keep pushing demand higher; the answer is pace. The second half must deliver: Wismar’s allottees on their land, thousands more titles, more foundations poured, more houses finished. But the direction is right, the money is moving, and the beneficiaries look like the nation itself. Prosperity must never pool at the top. Widely shared ownership, with women in the front rank, is how a rising Guyana makes sure it doesn’t.
Disagreeing with David Patterson at Mark Kirton’s birthday
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
DAVID Patterson, the present head of the Alliance For Change and I have always had a good relationship. It didn’t deteriorate when he acquired state power; it just was held in abeyance. I didn’t socialise with him after he became minister in May 2015. I stopped getting his birthday invitation after May 2015. But you can say that the relationship was badly parked after 2015 because my daily columns were punctuated with large doses of criticism of state power by the AFC. Because of the music and permeating conversations of the guests, David and I walked up the road to talk about his politics back then. He let me know that he resents me classifying him as a member of the MCC – Mulatto/Creole class. When someone hardly gives me a chance to talk in a conversation, then you know the world is coming to an end. I am a loud-mouthed aggressive Wortmanville madman, but David hardly gave me a chance to talk. Maybe I am no longer mad. David was irritated about my MCC description of him. He exclaimed: “Banna, I born in Lodge, you ask Lodge people about me.” For those who don’t know, Lodge is the Georgetown ward east of Wortmanville where I came from. My brother, “Lightweight” Kissoon and my mother’s cousin lived their entire lives in Lodge, so I know Lodge very well. I could see he was upset. I kept interjecting, saying: “I hope you give me a chance to talk when yuh finish.” When my chance came around, I told David that class thinking can occur because of association. Who told me to say that! David yelled out: “Wuh asso-
ciation you talking about. That is nonsense.” I attempted to deconstruct the word “association” away from its normal grammatical connotation. But David thought my application of the word to describe people’s social-class standing was nonsense. I used another angle – social classes are not fixed; they change form and substance over time. A proletarian person can achieve middle-class status through education. A middle-class human can become a petite bourgeois. A rising petty bourgeois can embourgeoisify him/herself through capital accumulation and become a member of the bourgeoisie. A peasant through investment can become a member of the petite bourgeoisie. That is the nature of class changes in society. Society is a formation with its inherent dynamism that allows for constant changes. A more fundamental agency of permanent change is the dialectic. I wasn’t able to convince David about the MCC ownership of the AFC because he personalises class standing. He looks at the existence of social classes based on how he sees himself in society. For him, his class origin determines his class standing. This is a huge misunderstanding of social classes. A person’s class origin does not exist in perpetuity. People achieve social elevation and transform their economic existence, thus moving from low-income stratum to middle-income stratum and the dynamism inherent in society allows for further integration into higher income brackets. I finally got in a sustained argument of mine which I used to show David the relationship between classes and ideology. You
can cling to your working-class origin, even though you lost your proletarian existence and have become middle class or petite bourgeois and still proclaim your working-class standing. This is where ideology comes in. If you were born into the proletariat class but along the way, you achieve higher class standing you can still describe yourself as a working-class boy, because your ideology is in support of the working people and your personal lifestyle accommodates relationships with the proletariat. Objectively, your economic status makes you petite bourgeois and you cannot change that fact. But you can make serious claim to being working class through ideology. This is where the founder of Marxism, Karl Marx comes in. Marx employed his scholarship in service to the liberation of the proletariat class. Marx was not a working-class economist or philosopher, but he used philosophy to liberate
the proletariat across the world. In Guyana, Jagan is the perfect example where ideology can be used to create social conditions that favour the masses. My point to David was that if he were a working-class boy as he claimed he is, then he did nothing for the Guyanese working people when he had power, because he did not have a proletarian ideology and his party was a purist MCC entity. We agreed to disagree but the conversation ended on a note that was mentally satisfying for me. He told me about the one regret he has about being in power. Based on my contribution to Guyana, he still regrets that he did not reach out to me. No hard feelings though, David. We’re still friends. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
UG moves to resolve delayed release of Criminal Law grades
–– chancellor orders urgent action THE University of Guyana (UG) has initiated steps to resolve the prolonged delay in the release of Criminal Law I and Criminal Law II grades for the 2024/2025 academic year, with Chancellor Sir Ronald Sanders ordering urgent action to ensure affected students are not placed at a disadvantage. Sir Ronald, in a message to students, described the delay as “completely unacceptable” and apologised to the affected students, acknowledging the anxiety and uncertainty caused by the outstanding grades. The chancellor said the matter was brought to his attention by the President of the University of Guyana
Students’ Society on September 17. He subsequently referred the complaint to the Chairman of the Transitional Management Team, Professor Stafford Griffith, and requested an investigation into the matter, including the establishment of the facts and the implementation of corrective action. However, after being informed that the matter had only been partially addressed by the September 18 deadline, Sir Ronald issued further directions. These include informing all affected students of the status of their grades and the steps being taken to resolve the matter, while making urgent arrangements to ensure that no student suffers academic, professional
or any hindrance because of the delay. The chancellor also directed that the circumstances which allowed the grades to remain outstanding for such an extended period be formally examined. Sir Ronald further instructed the registrar and the Examinations Division to communicate candidly with affected students, stressing that the marking of examination scripts or submission of marksheets should not be confused with the official release of approved grades. Through Professor Griffith, the chancellor has instructed the registrar to identify all students affected, including those facing imminent application or admission
deadlines. Where necessary, it was stated that UG will provide certified explanatory letters, interim academic documentation or direct confirmation to the Council of Legal Education and relevant law schools. The university will also consider, through the appropriate academic authorities, exceptional measures to ensure that students are not prejudiced by circumstances for which they bear no responsibility. Meanwhile, an administrative review will examine why the grades were not processed and released within the required period and why earlier assurances were not fulfilled. The registrar will also be required to determine whether similarly outstand-
Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Sir Ronald Sanders ing grades exist elsewhere Transitional Management within the university and Team and University Counreport the findings to the cil.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
The PNC approach to opposition will keep them in small third-party mode
THIS past Friday, I happened upon the press conference of the PNCR/APNU in which the entire period was spent deriding the government for any and everything. In this vein, they seized upon the mid-year economic report published by the Ministry of Finance. They embarked on a fishing expedition that demonstrably revealed, either their lack of understanding, or a deliberate attempt to deflect. My bet is that it involves a little of both. That said, I daresay that the PNC are miles ahead of WIN. Those people will not hold a press conference to tackle even the rudimentary political events of the week, much less make an attempt at deconstructing simi-complex economic policy variables. I do not think the principals of WIN are capable of even elementary analysis and free-flowing discursive exchanges on our growth trajectory. WIN is a private personal/family brand masquerading as a political party. This brand is built on personal vendetta, image laundering, and sensationalism. This political format is curated to benefit one entity: The Mohameds. They will never show any interest in traditional hard politics, economic policy, international affairs or any form of serious conceptional analysis of development. Even though the principals of PNCR/ APNU appeared to be talking around terms, and possibly bluffing the analysis, they are a hundred times better than WIN. They showed some signs that they can progressively get it together. With some practice and comprehensive contemplation, they may be able to string together some analysis and policy prescriptions that actually make sense. I believe the PNC’s philosophical approach to opposition politics is what is preventing them from rising to the occasions or meeting the moments that will establish them as
the dominant opposition party despite holding only 12 parliamentary seats. The fault lines in their approach lie in their one-dimensional approach to opposition. They demonstrate an insatiable desire to oppose everything, so they read a mid-year report that has hundreds of positive economic indicators and sector trends, and all they saw is the one sector that lost a half percentage point, and spent three-quarters of the 90-minute press conference belabouring it. Dr. Terrence Campbell et al’s most laughable commentary was that the growth experienced by the other sectors are dependent on the oil sector, and they argued that that is a bad economic omen. I am writing this in nontechnical language, so that ordinary people reading it can follow along. I will debunk this myth by asking a simple question. Isn’t it commonsense that a portion of the income accumulated from oil be spent on expanding agricultural output? Isn’t it good financial management if funds from oil is redirected to investments in manufacturing, construction or wider variety and higher quality in the services sector? Of course, all other sectors will be dependent on oil to fuel (pun intended) their growth. That’s how frontier oil economies work. Based on conventional economic research; this trend is expected to continue for about a decade. Of course, I can go into complex academic technicalities and reproduce academic authorities, but because the Campbell clan lacks depth, I need not go there. Dr. Terrence Campbell et. al also spewed a lot of shallow economic analysis in an attempt to disparage the mid-year report. For example, they argued that the recorded increases in sum depository at the commercial banks primarily resulted from the increases in
By Leonard craig accounts needed for cash grant deposits, which created artificial transient increases in number of new accounts and total deposits. In the same breath, the group acknowledged that there was an expansion in government spending on wages and salaries. Given these two outlays alone, my question is simple: Where did the money go? Does the Campbell crew understand the rudiments of money circulation and the cyclic flow in the expenditure approach to gross domestic product? This article was not written to disparage any individual on the APNU panel, even though I know it may very well cause some consternation. The object really intended to suggest that the principals of the PNCR are capable of more, are capable of deeper analysis that is way beyond the capacity of the sham political organisation wearing the moniker WIN. The PNCR, though having only 12 parliamentary seats, is capable of being the main opposition in performance, but they have to shift their political philosophy for from criticise everything or oppose everything to an approach that acknowl-
edges facts and the positive moves of the government then discuss how to manipulate and fine-tune the factors to take results even further. This approach will make their analysis richer, more succinct, thoughtful and in-depth. I want to give them the benefit of the doubt; I will not accuse them of being incapable of better. I refuse to believe that they have reached the height of their intellectual prowess. However, if they continue to pick up documents such as the mid-year report and rush through it for the few weak points just to criticise and sound noble, that would mean that they have to dabble in incomplete analysis. This approach forced Campbell and crew to ignore glaring positives and solid economic growth trends in both oil and non-oil sectors. In so doing, they lose credibility, and continue to play a junior role in the Opposition, and pass up on occasions to make a dozen appear bigger than 16. DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited.
Air Navigation Services Area Control Centre praised for swift response to in-flight emergency THE Area Control Centre at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority’s (GCAA) Air Navigation Services has been highly commended for its exemplary response in facilitating the safe return of an aircraft after an in-flight emergency. According to a press release issued by the GCAA, the incident took place shortly after the aircraft departed Cheddi Jagan International Airport, bound for the VC Bird International
Airport in Antigua, on Sunday, September 20, 2026. “After identifying the emergency, the pilot in command promptly informed the Air Traffic Control Tower at Timehri. Air traffic con-
trollers provided immediate clearance for the aircraft’s return and expertly coordinated its landing, ensuring proper separation from other air traffic. The Aerodrome Fire Service and Cheddi Jagan International Airport authorities responded promptly after being notified of the emergency,” the release said. It added that the GCAA reaffirms its commitment to maintaining the highest standards of safety and professionalism in air-traffic management.
D-UP Basketball Academy aims to make the sport a community-based event
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
D-UP (Defence) Basketball Academy, which operates out of Tuschen New Scheme, East Bank Essequibo, is being led by Head Coach/Director Anthony Kandar, whose aim is to promote the sport and also get youths involved via community-based events. Kandar told the Guyana Chronicle that D-UP Basketball Academy was established in January 2022
with the goal of promoting and producing productive members of society, and keeping the youths engaged in sports. He said that he is very concerned about the societal ills plaguing the youths, and as such they register children from age four years to 18 years of age. Kandar stated that their non-profit organisation (NGO) is often funded by
members of the public and the private sector. According to him, the main sponsors included the Ministry of Education, the regional chairman and the RDC, Century Spring Water, Melville Singh Construction and Interior Works, I&S Trading, Gafoors, and a family from the United States of America. He disclosed that they currently use two basket-
ball courts, one at Tuschen Primary School and the other is at Tuschen Secondary School. Currently, a two-month-long basketball tournament is in progress every Saturday from noon to 17:30hrs. He related that various schools would participate, including those from Regions Three and Four, including the Bishops’ High, President’s College, St.
Stanislaus, Tutorial High, Parika Secondary, Tuschen Secondary, Leonora Secondary, West Demerara Secondary, Zeeburg Secondary, Uitvlugt Secondary, and Vergenoegen Secondary. Kandar said the semifinal and finals will be played at the Tuschen Secondary School basketball court on November 28, 2026, and it is titled ‘Tournament Region Three Schools Basketball
Jamboree’. He noted that the basketball sessions started on September 18, 2026, and he and his team want to make the events a community-based affair, where the locals can come out to support a team of their choice. Kandar explained that from this tournament, a team of 12 players will be selected to go to St. Lucia in August 2027.
Some of the Under-11 students the academy works with at Tuschen Secondary School basketball court
The Cornelia Secondary School basketball team
Coach Anthony Kandar (far right) with some of the Under-14 players
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
Mainstay/Whyaka celebrates Amerindian heritage with rich cultural programme
MAINSTAY/Whyaka in Region Two was among the first Amerindian communities to host its Heritage Day celebrations, bringing together residents and visitors for a vibrant programme showcasing the community’s rich cultural traditions and heritage. The celebration featured a range of cultural presentations and activities, highlighting the history, traditions and identity of
the Indigenous people of Mainstay/Whyaka. Delivering the feature address was Director of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs and Member of Parliament Sonia Latchman, who joined community members in recognising the importance of preserving and promoting Amerindian culture. Also in attendance were Regional Chairman Devin Mohan, Deputy Regional Executive Officer Omesh Sasenaryan, Prime Minis-
ter Representative Arnold Adams, other officials and community representatives. Toshao of Mainstay/ Whyaka Marsha Williams said the occasion was more than a celebration, noting that it provided an opportunity for residents to reflect on and appreciate their cultural heritage. She explained that the Heritage Day celebration was organised by the Village Council, with the aim of bringing the community
Mainstay/Whyaka Heritage Day celebration in full swing
Director-General Ministry of Amerindian Affairs Sonia Latchman warmly embraces a resident during the Heritage Day celebration together while keeping its traditions and cultural practices alive. Williams emphasised the importance of passing the community’s traditions from one generation to the next, ensuring that the younger generation remains connected to its Indigenous roots. The Heritage Day celebration formed part of activities aimed at recognising
the rich contribution of Guyana’s Indigenous Peoples, and promoting greater appreciation for their culture, traditions and way of life. For Mainstay/Whyaka, the occasion served as a proud demonstration of Indigenous identity, community spirit, and the importance of preserving a heritage that continues to shape the village.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
Line Path Secondary School hosts successful termly market day
SKELDON Line Path Secondary School in Corentyne, Berbice, recently hosted its Termly Market Day, providing students with an exciting opportunity to showcase their creativity, skills, a n d e n t re p re n e u r i a l spirit. The activity allowed students to put classroom learning into practice
through the preparation, presentation, and sale of a variety of items. Beyond the excitement of buying and selling, Market Day is helping students develop important life skills such as teamwork, communication, financial management, customer service, and entrepreneurship. According to the
Some of the products that were made by students for the school’s Market Day event
school, the success of the event was a team effort involving teachers, students, parents and well-wishers. They all contributed to making the activity possible, and supported the young entrepreneurs purchasing items. “At Skeldon Line Path
Secondary School, we remain committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that prepare our students for life beyond the classroom, from resources to results, empowering learners, elevating achievements,” the school said.
Market days in Guyanese schools are hands-on agricultural and entrepreneurial events where students sell organic crops, poultry, and homemade goods grown or processed right on their school grounds. Among the items
sold are squash, pumpkin, bora, callaloo, peppers, okra, bananas, coconuts, local herbs, and agro-processed goods such as bottled pepper sauce, achars, chips, fruit juices, green seasonings, and pickles.
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Scores attend Fourth European Union Bicycle Tour of Georgetown
THE Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, on Sunday, hosted the Fourth European Union Bicycle Tour of Georgetown, bringing cyclists and other non-motorised road users together for an early-morning tour through
the capital. The tour rolled off just after 06:00hrs from the Vlissingen Road entrance of the Botanical Gardens and was open to participants with bicycles, roller skates and foot scooters. Participants included Ministers
Priya Manickchand and Susan Rodrigues, members of the Guyana Cycling Federation and the City Constabulary. In brief remarks EU Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni, highlighted that cycling is a
EU Ambassador to Guyana, Luca Pierantoni addresses those participating in the Fourth European Union Bicycle Tour of Georgetown
great way to ease traffic, improve health, spend time outdoors, and perhaps even combine morning exercise with the daily commute. He also thanked the European Chamber of Commerce Guyana and Blue Spring Water for co-sponsoring the
event. Now in its fourth edition, the EU Bicycle Tour promotes healthy lifestyles, sustainable mobility and environmentally friendly transportation, while providing an opportunity for participants to experience Georgetown
from a different perspective. The EU Delegation expressed its sincere thanks to the Guyana Police Force Traffic Department for providing support along the route that helped ensure a safe and smooth experience for participants.
Ministers Priya Manickchand and Susan Rodrigues were among the participants
Guyana celebrates 60 years of UN membership
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
The following is the full text of a statement issued by Guyana’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Co-operation on Sunday:
“ON this day, 20 September, in the year 1966, during its 21st session, the United Nations General Assembly, by acclamation, admitted Guyana as a member state of the United Nations. Our young nation affirmed Guyana’s faith in the United Nations, and our hope to be ’an active rather than a sleeping member’ of the organisation. And indeed, diplomatic activism has been a hallmark of Guyana’s engagement with the United Nations and the international system writ large! “We recognised in the United Nations the embodi-
ment of the collective aspirations of the world’s people for a most just, equitable, and democratic international order. This recognition was born of our own struggles for self-determination. It was almost an acknowledgement that multilateralism and collective action are imperatives to effectively confront the challenges facing our world community. “In six decades since our admission to the premier international organisation, Guyana has engaged actively and constructively in the work of the United Nations, in support of peace and security, development, human rights, and the rule of
international law. Throughout, we have maintained a principled and purposeful approach. From the very beginning of our tenure, Guyana was entrusted with positions of leadership and responsibility, starting with to the Council for Namibia tasked with concluding the process of decolonisation of that territory. Our country engaged the major causes of our time, the struggles against colonialism and apartheid, for a more just international economic and social order, especially for small states, for disarmament and nuclear non-proliferation. Moreover, Guyana has
championed United Nations initiatives promoting sovereign equality, equal rights, self-determination, and people-centred development. We have benefited from principles of non-intervention and peaceful settlement of disputes. Through strong advocacy and action, we have bene a leader in addressing the existential climate crisis. Guyana, through its representatives has served across the spectrum of United Nations organs and activities, including as President of the General Assembly, the Security Council, the Economic and Social Council, on the International Court of
Justice, the Human Rights Committee, and the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women. Guyana also served on two occasions as Chair of the Group of 77 and Chin, the principal developing country grouping in the UN. Notably, in this 60th year of UN membership, Guyana has nominated one of its most distinguished daughters, H.E. Carolyn Rodrigues Birkett, to occupy the high office of Secretary-General. This nomination is a tangible demonstrate of Guyana’s enduring belief in the UN and its ideals, and of the equal opportunities offered
to all Member States in this family of nations regardless of size. As we celebrate this 60th anniversary milestone, the Government of Guyana expresses profound appreciation for the supportive role of the organisation, including the UN country team, in our country’s pursuit of peace, development, and democracy. We reaffirm our commitment to the United Nations and our faith in the United Nations Charter and international law. Today, as always, Guyana stands as a committed partner in the continuing global quest for peace and prosperity.”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
The race to build a pandemic-proof world
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
SIX years after COVID-19 killed millions, battered health systems, disrupted lives and brought the global economy to a virtual standstill, the world is still grappling with how we can prepare better for the next pandemic. The need is even greater amid growing threats to global stability and security from emerging infectious diseases as well as climate-related crises and conflicts.
WHAT HAPPENED? Over seven million lives were lost due to COVID-19, according to the UN World Health Organization (WHO). The pandemic did not just claim lives. It shattered economies, disrupted entire health systems and exposed how unevenly rich and poor countries could access vaccines, tests and treatments. The global response to the pandemic was described by UN Secretary-General António Guterres as a “story of human ingenuity and human failure”. Vaccines were developed at record speed, but the lack of preparedness meant the most vulnerable had the least access to care and suffered most. WHY IT MATTERS? Viruses, like COVID-19, do not respect borders. An outbreak detected in one country can quickly spread across the world, putting people everywhere at risk. That makes surveillance, data sharing, research and development – as well as access to vaccines, diagnostics and treatments – all international priorities. It’s also why human, animal and environmental health are now treated as one connected system. Over 60 per cent of emerging infectious diseases jump to humans from animals, so rigorous surveillance at that human-animal-environment interface is critical. THE EQUITY GAP COVID-19 laid bare stark inequities over who had access to vaccines, tests and treatments first. Richer countries with manufacturing capacity were far better prepared than poorer ones. But the equity issue is broader than access to vaccines, therapeutics and diagnostics. It also includes equitable access to skills, resources and financing.
Closing that gap is the core argument for treating prevention, preparedness and response as an international rather than a purely national issue.
A GLOBAL PANDEMIC AGREEMENT The COVID-19 pandemic was a wake-up call to the world. Global collaboration is key to preventing and responding to future pandemics. As UN Secretary-General Guterres has warned, “We must not repeat the mistakes of the past when the next pandemic strikes, as we know it will. That means working together.” The international community has made progress. The landmark WHO Pandemic Agreement, the first binding global accord on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, was adopted in May 2025. But, adoption is just the beginning. Negotiators from countries still have to agree the Pathogen Access and Benefit-Sharing (PABS) annex to the agreement. That’s the mechanism for sharing virus samples and, in return, guaranteeing countries in need can access the resulting vaccines, diagnostics and treatments. With negotiations on the annex advancing on Friday, once it is adopted by the World Health Assembly, the treaty can open for signature and national ratification. It needs 60 ratifications to legally enter into force. The agreement also establishes a global supply chain and logistics network to get medical supplies to countries during emergencies, and a new “coordinating financial mechanism” to support strengthening and expanding capacities for pandemic prevention, preparedness and response. WHAT NEEDS TO CHANGE? To be better prepared before the next pandemic, the international community needs to focus on: Preventing outbreaks before they start and containing them from spreading Stronger preparedness, ensuring capacities and resources are in place, including for research and development A more robust response that ensures continuity of essential health services. The availability of surge and manufacturing capacity that is geographically
spread with sustainable supply chains. Underpinning all of this is the need for sustainable and predictable financing and a legal architecture for international coordination and collaboration.
THIS WEEK AT THE UN The 193-member General Assembly is holding a high-level meeting on pandemic prevention, pre-
paredness and response on 25 September 2026. The one-day meeting brings world leaders to UN Headquarters in New York to discuss coordinating global action, financing and equitable access to medical supplies. A political declaration meant to lock in fresh commitments is expected. WHAT’S NEXT?
The timing of the next pandemic cannot be predicted, so preparation is crucial. The lesson of COVID-19 is that preparedness cannot begin when hospitals are already under strain. It has to happen between pandemics, through stronger health systems, earlier warning, international cooperation and a basic principle that protecting people any-
where helps protect people everywhere. WHAT IS A PANDEMIC? A “pandemic emergency” is a communicable disease outbreak that spreads widely across multiple countries, overwhelming health systems, causing major social or economic disruption and requiring coordinated international action. (UN)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, September 21, 2026
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, September 21, 2026
EN GLIS H R A C IN G TIPS LEICESTER 08:59 hrs Q T Boy 09:31 hrs Lovely Dark Angel 1 0 : 0 2 h r s Wa r r i o r
Knight 10:37 hrs Allaire 11:12 hrs Act Of Violence 11:47 hrs Metallo 12:17 hrs Ridger HAMILTON 08:45 hrs Hostelry 09:15 hrs By Jove Grace 09:47 hrs Himble Dark 10:22 hrs Little Mi Mi 10:55 hrs Thornaby Pearl 11:30 hrs City Captain 12:02 hrs Edmond Halley WOLVERHAMPTON 11:00 hrs The Anthony Gover 11:35 hrs Jack Langley 12:07 hrs Chianti 12:42 hrs Pigeon Pete 13:12 hrs Barry The Worm 13:42 hrs Rain Cap 14:12 hrs American State 14:42 hrs Satyress 15:12 hrs Midnight Call SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS SCOTTSVILLE 08:30 hrs Down By The River 09:05 hrs One Irish Rover 09:40 hrs Eric's Legacy 10:15 hrs Exocet IRISH RACING TIPS LISTOWEL 08:23 hrs Williamsburg 08:53 hrs Green Kite 09:23 hrs Noble Irish 09:55 hrs Amplitude 10:30 hrs Wie Wunderbar 11:05 hrs Handani 11:40 hrs The Austrian 12:12 hrs Lauderdale King AMERICAN RACING TIPS FINGER LAKES Race 1 Love Coin Race 2 Sun Kissed Bliss Race 3 Covered Opinión Race 4 Spun Size Race 5 Celeslia Race 6 Galileans Race 7 Stickipwithoutagun Race 8 Zi End
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, September 21, 2026
Ellis and Inglis break Zimbabwe hearts to secure one-wicket thriller
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Australia concluded their first tour of Zimbabwe in 12 years with a clean sweep of the hosts, who were unable to deliver a consolation win to a festive Harare crowd, as Nathan Ellis held his nerve alongside No. 11 Spencer Johnson in a match-winning 10th-wicket stand of 27. Zimbabwe do not have any internationals at home for the rest of the 2026 and, after posting their second-highest total batting first against Australia, saw the match slip from their grasp in the dramatic closing stages. Pressure changed sides throughout the last quarter of the contest. Australia were cruising on 162 for 3 in the 26th over, when Brad Evans removed Alex Carey for the third of his four wickets and set the cat among the pigeons as wickets fell regularly. Josh Inglis was holding the chase
Josh Inglis brought up his second ODI hundred • AFP/Getty Images together with his second ODI hundred, but when he fell 45 were still needed. Then Ellis, who had earlier taken 3 for 50, put together a superbly-measured 36 not out to secure a thrilling win. Their chase was built largely on the efforts of Inglis, who was the third
Australian to reach a hundred in the series, after Matt Renshaw in the opening match and Travis Head in game two. In contrast, Zimbabwe did not have a century-marker, though Sikandar Raza and Craig Ervine scored two fifties each, including in this match and
were the leading run-scorers across the three matches. Zimbabwe also had two of the three top bowlers and will know that it was in moments, not personnel terms, that they lost to Australia. In this match, there were four major ones. The first came when Innocent Kaia, batting
well on 55, had to retire hurt with what looked like a hamstring injury to interrupt an 80-run fourth wicket stand with Ervine and stall Zimbabwe. The second was when Ervine, on 59, tried to accelerate with 10 overs left to go and holed out to longon to spark a collapse of 4 for 22 which left Zimbabwe short of the 300 that was in their sights. Then, in the field, Inglis, on 48, cut Ernest Masuku in the air to backward point and Wessly Madhevere leapt to his right but could not hold on. The drop proved costly even though Madhevere took a stunner to dismiss Carey. Madhevere's biggest mistake was still to come. In the penultimate over when Ellis launched Masuku to deep midwicket, Madhevere got under the ball and spilled the chance. With nine runs needed off the last six balls, Raza
then gave Madhevere the ball, even though Graeme Cremer had an over in hand having caused problems in his first ODI in 2018. The first ball went for six and left Madhevere inconsolable at the end. Inglis was in early after Evans struck twice in his first two overs. He had Head caught at deep backward square when he flicked off his pads and then found Mitchell Marsh's inside edge to leave Australia were 25 for 2 in the fourth over. Inglis announced himself with a swivel pull that went for four and was brutal through the point area. He greeted Cremer's return by sending his first ball - a full toss - through mid-on for four. But Cremer came back well and bowled Cooper Connolly with a classic leg break to announce his return in some style.
Mourinho prints out ‘red card’ incidents after Real lose derby
(BBC) - Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho arrived at his postmatch news conference carrying an A4 sheet of printed paper with screenshots displaying two incidents he believed should have resulted in Atletico Madrid dismissals. Mourinho accused the officials of making key errors after Real Madrid were beaten 2-1 by Atletico Madrid, claiming the
hosts should have been handed two red cards in the first half. It was Real Madrid's second defeat of the season, having lost 1-0 to Real Betis earlier in September. "We can skip the press conference because the story of the match is right here," Mourinho said as he showed media the printed images. "Those were two clear red cards. Given the dif-
ficulties we faced afterwards playing 11 against 10, we can only imagine what 50 minutes of 11 against nine would have been like. "So I'll just have to limit myself to hugging my players, who gave it their all and played a first half, showed great class and character, setting us up perfectly to win the second half." Diego Simeone, in contrast, was ecstat-
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday September 21, 2026) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel:225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Dasun Shanaka-24 (Patriots) (2) Dasun Shanaka-12 (Patriots vs SLK) Today’s Quiz: (1) Which wicketkeeper took most catches in the league round of CPL 2026? (2) Who took most catches in the field? Answers in tomorrow’s issue ……………………………………………………..
ic with the result and when asked to respond to Mourinho's refereeing rant, said he was always respectful of everyone else's opinions. "I understand that we're in a privileged position with a lot of public scrutiny, as coaches, and whether it's Mourinho, [Hansi] Flick, [Manuel] Pellegrini, me, or anyone else, we need to be careful about what we say," he said.
Where did he find a printer? Mourinho arrived at his news conference with screenshots of incidents he believed were red cards for the hosts
"We have to know how to respect others, the referees, our colleagues and we all lose
out. And when someone crosses that line of respect, it's not right - you can't cross that line."
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, September 21, 2026
46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan…
Guyana open chess team victorious in Round 4 IN a dominant Round 4 performance, the Guyana Open Chess Team secured a resounding 3.5–0.5 victory over Macau, China, on Saturday, September 19 at the 46th Chess Olympiad in Samarkand, Uzbekistan. Leading the charge on Board 1, National Chess Champion Candidate Master (CM) Sachin Pitamber delivered another impressive result, drawing against CM Tong Kuan Mak to extend his unbeaten run. On Board 2, National Junior Champion Kyle Couchman opened his winning account in style after navigating a tough series of opponents in the opening rounds, securing a dominant win over Seak Hin Leong. Commanding the White pieces, Couchman dictated the pace with an ironclad grip on the center. The turning
THE Athletics Association of Guyana is stepping up its preparations for the 2027 CARIFTA Games, with a renewed focus on identifying and developing young athletic talent across the country. The Association will host its Inter-Guyanese Trials on September 27 at the Guyana Defence Force, providing an opportunity for school-aged athletes under the age of 19 from across Guyana to showcase their abilities.
The Guyana Open Chess Team secured a resounding 3.5–0.5 victory over Macau, China point came after a series of king was drawn into the immediate resignation. CM Taffin Khan conhasty minor-piece exchanges center, setting up a series of that left Black with a distinct sharp, elegant tactical oppor- tinued the momentum on structural flaw: a vulnerable tunities. Couchman ruthless- Board 3 against Joao Car backward pawn on d6. As ly exploited these chances Bartilotti. With both playCouchman relentlessly ap- to spawn three uncontested ers castling queenside in a plied pressure, his opponent's passed pawns, forcing an quiet middlegame, Khan
patiently strengthened his positional edge by centralizing his knight. When his opponent launched an overly aggressive attempt to break the centre, Khan pounced. Capitalizing on the fatal tactical error, Khan seized the initiative, gaining a favourable exchange and an extra pawn. In the resulting endgame, Khan comfortably outmuscled his opponent to claim the full point. Completing the dominant performance on Board 4, Keron Sandiford utilized superior opening play with the White pieces to force David Sun into conceding significant positional weaknesses early on. Mid-game liquidations transitioned into a rook-and-pawn endgame that offered only the superficial appearance of parity. Sandiford’s connected kingside passed pawns made
light work of the endgame, enabling him to convert the position into a victory, bringing his individual tally to an impressive 2/3 early in the tournament. The 3.5–0.5 triumph over Macau brings the Open Team’s total score to 4/8 match points, an admirable start to their Olympiad campaign. The Women’s team encountered a tough test against higher-seeded Hong Kong, ultimately dropping all four boards. Round 5 continues on September 20th, 2026, at the Silk Road Exhibition Centre in Samarkand. The Open Team faces a formidable Luxembourg Team, while the Women will face Somalia in the eleven-round International event, which will conclude on September 27th, 2026.
The initiative comes as the AAG moves to expand its talent-identification programme through the establishment of mini training hubs in various parts of the country. According to the Association, athletes do not have to be members of an athletics club to benefit from the programme. Young athletes can join a training hub in their area, receive structured coaching and begin the process of preparing for na-
provide them with valuable international experience. The AAG Executive is simultaneously working on preparations for CARIFTA, the Inter-Guyanese Games and other international competitions, while developing its competition calendar for the upcoming athletics season. The Association's broader objective is to create a stronger national pathway for young athletes, starting with grassroots
development, progressing through the training hubs and trials, and ultimately providing opportunities for athletes to represent Guyana at major international competitions. With CARIFTA 2027 on the horizon, the AAG is calling on young athletes from across Guyana to take advantage of the opportunities being created and become part of the country's next generation of track and field talent.
AAG steps up preparation for CARIFTA 2027 tional selection and possible representation of Guyana at CARIFTA 2027. Niall Stanton and Kenisha Headley have been assigned responsibility for overseeing the coaches and coordinating the preparation and development of athletes participating in the various hubs. The programme is particularly significant during the school term, as it provides athletes with additional opportunities to continue their
development while remaining engaged in their academic programmes. Meanwhile, the Athletics Association of Guyana is also preparing to send an Under-23 team to the South American Games, which are scheduled to take place from October 16 to 19, 2026, in Argentina. The participation of the Under-23 team forms part of the Association's continued efforts to expose Guyanese athletes to high-level regional competition and
BCB/KSM Investment 50 Overs First Division Tournament…
Anderson, Sinclairs lead RHT Namilco Thunderbolt Flour into semis
NATIONAL players Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair and Junior Sinclair spearheaded Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour to an easy 183run victory over the Berbice Police Team in the Berbice Cricket Board / KSM Investment Inc 50 overs tournament. The emphatic win secured a semifinals berth for the team after an easy victory last Saturday against Upper Corentyne at No. 69 Ground. Playing at the Area
'H' Ground in very heated weather, the home team won the toss and elected to take first strike. They were rocked early when West Indies test player Kevin Sinclair was brilliantly caught at slip off the bowling of off-spinner Rocky Hutson for 08 in the first over, with the score at 7 for 1. National senior player Junior Sinclair and national Under 16 player Leon Reddy then added 103 for the second wicket in sixteen overs before Reddy was run
out for a well-played 35 with five fours. Sinclair was then caught at the long-on boundary for 69 at 127 for 3 in the 20th over. Sinclair's innings contained two sixes and five fours. Kevlon Anderson contributed a classy 74 with four fours and three maximums, supported by former national player Eon Hooper, who scored an even fifty, and national youth player Raffel McKenzie, 22, as Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour ended
their innings on 304 all out off fifty overs. Hooper and Anderson added 60 for the eighth wicket! Hooper struck one six and five fours in his responsible knock. The best bowlers for the Lawmen were Rocky Hutson 3 for 61 from 9 overs and left arm spinner Joel Seitaram 2 for 46 from 10 overs. Needing to score 305 runs from their allotted fifty overs to secure their first ever first division victory over Rose Hall Town, the
visitors were given a good opening stand of 53 in eight overs by the attacking Vishal Williams and Aldy Grant before fourteen years old left arm spinner Jayden Grant trapped Grant leg before wicket for 23. West Indies off spinner Kevin Sinclair then dismissed Ravindra Beharry for nought as the Lawmen slipped to 55 for 2. They never recovered as Sinclair spun web around the remaining batters. He dismissed Vishal Williams, formerly of the Port Mourant Cricket Club
for a well played 33, Simeon Gaffoor 06, Philserg Wilburg 38, Leroy Williams 03 and Paul James 02 to bowl out Police for 121 in 25.3 overs. The talented Sinclair ended with 6 for 31 from 9 overs while he received support from fellow off spinner Junior Sinclair with 3 for 15 (3.3 overs) and Gaupat 1 for 20. The victory ensured the powerful Rose Hall Town Namilco Thunderbolt Flour ended as winner of Group A.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, September 21, 2026
Courts Optical U11 football competition…
Santa Rosa, St. John the Baptist Primary Schools dominate opening day
SATURDAY’S opening day of the Courts Optical Pee Wee Football Competition saw dominant performances from Santa Rosa and St. John the Baptist. The thirty-two schools journeyed to the Ministry of Education ground seeking glory in the 2026 Courts Optical PEEWEE football competition. St. John the Baptist, a serial winner at the grassroots competition, kicked off their campaign in fine style with a 6-nil victory over Queenstown Primary. Elliana Grant was imperious, scoring a hat-trick in the 4th, 14th, and 55th. Christian Haly, Kaydon Fanfair, and Emmanuel Bobb scored the other goals. Former champions Santa Rosa Primary also blanketed Ann Grove Primary 9-nil to capture the day’s biggest win. Ethan Richards scored a quadruple, hitting the back of the net in the 1st, 4th,
15th, and 18th minutes. Santa Rosa Primary’s Kenyano Austin scored a brace with the other goals coming off the boots of Kaydon Hill, Derick Augustus, and Cody Dasilva.
Santa Rosa Secondary also edged St. Theressa Primary 3-nil in their second contest. Ethan Richards and Keyano Austin again scored, with Brandon Atkinson con-
THE Cricket West Indies Masters Association (CWIMA) has welcomed the government's continued support for the IMC Over40s Cricket World Cup, as Guyana prepares to host 16 teams for 72 matches in October 2026. The plans have now moved a step further on Sep 15, 2026, when Minister Steven Jacobs summoned the first joint interagency meeting among all the relevant government agencies, along with representatives of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and CWIMA rep-
resentatives. The tournament will feature 45-over matches at venues across several regions. Admission to all matches will be FREE, giving fans the opportunity to enjoy international masters cricket and support the participating teams. The briefing focused on coordinating team arrivals, transportation, medical services, and arrangements for players and spectators. Priorities included a smooth arrival experience for visiting teams and coordinated services across the host
regions. Special mention was made about the safety and security of the players and match officials during their stay in Guyana. In this regard, the GPF will visit all the venues (hotels & grounds )across the country to formulate a security plan for our visitors. Representatives of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport; the National Sports Commission; the Ministry of Health; the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation; GEMA; the Guyana Police Force; the Guyana Defence Force and
Courts optical brand manager Richard Simpson, Minister Steven Jacobs, and Petra director Troy Mendonca meeting players
IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup plans shift into second gear
tributing the other goal. Top side West Ruimveldt narrowly edged St. Aloysius Primary 3-nil, thanks to goals from Omar Morris, Malachi Murray, and Damari Carrington.
Georgetown International Academy got their first win against Stella Maris Primary 2-1. Caleb Tan put GIA ahead 3 minutes after the whistle, but Stella Maris Primary Clevon Jacob found the equalizer soon after with his lone goal in the 7th minute. Tan then broke the deadlock in the 34th minute to seal the win for GIA. GIA then passed FE Pollard Primary 1-nil. Goed Fortuin went down to Pakuri Primary 3-1, with Miles Ray taking the lead with a triple, scoring either side of the break. Goed Fortuin Nathan Debidin scored their consolation goal in the 40th minute. Defending champion Leonora Primary also got a successful start to their defense with a 3-nil win over Soesdyke Primary. Jonathan Melville was on target in the 3rd, 39th, and 41st to give the champions the advantage.
St. Gabriel Primary edged Belladrum Primary 1-nil with a Simon Scott goal. Waramuri Primary defeated Genesis Primary, thanks to a double from Lamar Matthias. Marian Academy began their campaign with a 3-nil win over St. Stephen’s Primary. Juan Diego scored a brace, with Nwora Lincoln scoring the other goal. Minister Steven Jacobs giving feature remarks before the March Pass implores the youngsters to take the opportunity with both hands as they see the future of the beautiful game and the country. He commended the sponsors for investment in the competition over the past decade and highlighted the competition’s impact on sports at the youth levels. The tournament continues next Saturday at the CARFESTA Avenue ground.
Part of the meeting with the Minister within the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport other supporting agencies participated. CWIMA was represented by Rajendra Singh, Roy Singh, Zamin Amin, Paul Ar-
cher and Lawrence Farnum. CWIMA thanks the participating agencies for their support and looks forward to welcoming the
teams. The association encourages cricket fans across Guyana to be part of the IMC Over-40s Cricket World Cup.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Monday, September 21, 2026
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St. John the Baptist battling Queenstown Primary
The Antigua and Barbuda Falcons are new CPL Champions Details in tomorrow’s edition
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Amir Jangoo (foreground) and Hasan Nawaz took the Antigua and Barbuda Falcons to their first CPL title
| MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 21 , 2026